Latest news with #ARATASHIGENO


Nikkei Asia
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Nikkei Asia
EV magnets by Japan's Proterial do not need heavy rare-earth metals
Proterial has developed neodymium magnets for use in EV motors without the need for heavy rare earth metals. (Photo courtesy of Proterial) ARATA SHIGENO TOKYO -- Japanese metal maker Proterial has developed magnets for use in electric vehicle motors that do not require heavy rare-earth metals, a breakthrough that could ease supply chain concerns amid China's export restrictions on the materials. Proterial, formerly Hitachi Metals, has developed two types of neodymium magnets, which are often used in precision machines and EVs because of their high performance. The company has begun shipping samples of one magnet from its mass production plant. Sample shipments of a second type with enhanced heat resistance are expected to start as early as April 2026.

Nikkei Asia
03-07-2025
- Business
- Nikkei Asia
Mitsubishi Gas Chemical to buy into Aussie hydrogen miner
Energy Toyota and Eneos unit will also invest in startup Gold Hydrogen Mitsubishi Gas Chemical hopes to use natural hydrogen to produce methanol from carbon dioxide and waste. © Reuters ARATA SHIGENO TOKYO -- Mitsubishi Gas Chemical will invest in an Australian startup that mines underground hydrogen, looking to use the gas for environmentally friendlier methanol production, the Japanese company announced Thursday. The investment will be made in Gold Hydrogen, which has discovered natural, or underground, hydrogen in the state of South Australia. The startup aims to mine the hydrogen commercially.